Toyota-Designed Insects Buzzing With Technology

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) revealed the Smart INSECT study, a next-generation communications-linked concept vehicle that uses information technology (IT) services to support its driver's lifestyle and activities.

The name INSECT is an acronym for "information network social electrical city transporter". The name aims to convey a picture of a small insect that flies around on massive wings, in the same manner because the vehicle freely navigates through and uses an information network.

The Smart INSECT is an ultra-compact, single-passenger electrical vehicle (EV) based on the "COMS" EV created by TMC subsidiary Toyota Auto Body Co., Ltd.

It is provided with technologies such as motion sensors, voice recognition and behavior prediction, needed for next-generation communications-linked services. The Smart INSECT, which connects with its driver and their home via the cloud-based mostly Toyota Smart Center, embodies the concept of services that communicate with users to support the convenient, comfortable use of cars in their daily lives.

The Smart INSECT is currently displayed and demonstrated at the Toyota Booth at CEATEC JAPAN 2012, a sophisticated technologies exhibition held till Oct. six at the Makuhari Messe in Chiba City, Japan.

The Smart INSECT Concept Model is intended to showcase Toyota’s technical understand-how, but also to fuel thoughts regarding where urban vehicles are heading.

The Smart INSECT's front-mounted motion sensors use facial-recognition technology to detect and authenticate a driver registered with the vehicle when she approaches.

The vehicle communicates with the driving force by flashing the front lights and greeting the driver via the instrument panel monitor. The motion sensors detect the motive force's movements, gap the door consistent with the movement of the driving force's hand.

A "virtual agent" at the Toyota Smart Center recognizes the motive force's voice and, through communication with the driving force, predicts his or her intentions, setting the destination and operating various functions of the vehicle, like the fog lamps and audio system.

Smartphone navigation and content will be operated by voice command via the virtual agent. Through this same virtual agent and voice commands, the driving force can, as an example, check and operate the locks and air conditioners of their home from inside the vehicle.